PHS Automotive Malaysia today launched the Audi Q8 e-tron, which is offered in two body styles, each with two variants available. The fully electric SUV was formerly known simply as the e-tron when it made its global debut back in September 2018, but was recently renamed so customers can more easily identify its position in the brand’s line-up given the new EVs added over the years.
The Audi’s asking sum mentioned applies to the base Q8 e-tron advanced 50 quattro, which features two electric motors that provide a total system output of 340 PS and 664 Nm of torque. This setup allows for a 0-100 km/h time of six seconds and a top speed of 200 km/h. There’s also the Audi virtual cockpit plus and MMI Navigation plus infotainment system with MMI touch response. The latter consists of dual high-resolution touchscreen displays, with the upper one being a 10.1-inch unit that provides access to the majority of vehicle functions. Just below this is another display measuring 8.6 inches diagonally that handles climate control and selected features.
As a result, the century sprint time is reduced to 5.6 seconds, but the top speed remains the same. The Q8 e-tron S line 55 quattro’s battery also has a higher gross energy capacity of 114 kWh that bumps up the range to 481 km. In terms of charging, the higher-spec variant supports AC charging at a higher rate of 22 kW, with a full charge taking six hours. The DC fast charging rate is also increased to 170 kW, and a 0-80% SoC is reached in 31 minutes.
You do sacrifice a bit of boot space for a more dynamic shape, as the Q8 Sportback e-tron offers 528 litres at the rear. Pricing starts at RM389,990 for the Q8 Sportback e-tron advanced 50 quattro, which nets you the same powertrain as the regular-bodied equivalent mentioned above. The performance figures are the same, although range is slightly better at 415 km, likely due to the vehicle’s profile – charging specifications are identical.